Incisive commentary from the IfG’s expert team on issues facing government and key ministerial decisions.
From analysis of key political events such as budgets and party conferences to snap responses to unexpected developments such as government reshuffles, our writers set out their views and analyse what government gets right, what it gets wrong, and what it can do better.
War Powers
Last night, MPs voted overwhelmingly in favour of military action in Libya.
How the most powerful mandarins spend their time
The 'external contact' chart from the Cabinet Office provides a fascinating insight into the different roles played by Cabinet secretary.
Japanese earthquake: tested to the limit
Japan has become the latest government to have their crisis management capability tested by extreme natural disaster.
Doncaster, not Leicester, calls the shots in Sheffield
Andrew Adonis is in Sheffield - the latest stop on his city mayors' tour.
What do ministers do?
There is no obvious link between what governments do and the number of ministers.
Shifting the blame
Bureaucrat bashing is, for many, an attractive and enjoyable blood sport.
Striking the right balance on public appointments
The Institute's latest report, Balancing Act, proposes a range of reforms to enhance parliament's role in the public appointments process
99 and not out
I heard how Leeds and Bradford felt about elected mayors on the latest leg of my city tour.
Women on Boards - do they matter?
Mervyn Davies' report last week, 'Women on Boards' highlights the under representation of women on the boards of British companies.
Ireland shapes up